[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 37 (Tuesday, February 25, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E209]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN CELEBRATION OF THE NAMI WASHTENAW COUNTY'S THE ADVOCATE GALA: TAKING 
                              OFF THE MASK

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 25, 2020

  Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize NAMI Washtenaw 
County and celebrate its 2020 Advocate Gala: Taking Off the Mask. 
NAMI's lasting commitment to supporting mental health in our community 
is worthy of commendation.
  NAMI Washtenaw County is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives 
of those living with mental health conditions. Established by a group 
of concerned parents of children with mental health conditions, NAMI 
Washtenaw County was created in 1984 to address our community's mental 
health needs. Since its humble beginnings, NAMI Washtenaw County has 
grown significantly and continues to provide critical mental health 
educational programs, support groups, and advocacy work that address 
mental health concerns and work to correct the stigmas that are so 
often attached. Today, NAMI Washtenaw County ensures thousands of 
individuals, families, and educators connect with the support and 
information they need.
  The Taking Off the Mask Gala exemplifies NAMI Washtenaw County's 
continued commitment to addressing mental condition concerns. Although 
mental conditions impact the lives of many, people remain afraid, 
unwilling, or embarrassed to talk about mental health in fear of the 
stigma that is attached. Thanks to NAMI Washtenaw County's dedication, 
tonight's gala will help lift these damaging stigmas and uncover the 
stories of people living with mental health conditions that are often 
hidden behind masks. The gala will explore everyday hopes and struggles 
that come with caring for someone living with a mental health condition 
and encourage attendees to create an open future without stigma, 
judgement, or embarrassment.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring NAMI 
Washtenaw County as it hosts its Taking Off the Mask Gala. NAMI 
Washtenaw County continues to be critical resource to many, and its 
unrelenting commitment to improving the lives of those living with 
mental conditions makes a real and lasting difference in our community. 
We are grateful for NAMI Washtenaw County's meaningful impact and wish 
it continued success in the years ahead.

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